A bluesy mid-century romantic horror about a nightclub singer and a mysterious man she meets on the streets. Beautifully evocative imagery and fine acting from this up-and-coming young theatre company.
As a freshly devised piece, Tip Of Your Tongue tells a fairly familiar story that’s as old as time. But it’s ever so wonderfully done. The venue works both for and against them on this occasion. The wind blows a gale outside the tent, and there’s a few shuffling latecomers who could spoil the atmosphere. But this professional outfit don’t let that rattle them. In fact, there’s a certain cosiness in sheltering from the wind for a spooky story with Split Hairs. The theatrical equivalent of an old black and white ghost story on a Sunday afternoon. The setting is intimate and the audience silent in anticipation.
The imagery is just gorgeous. In the black domed tent, the use of light and shadows really sets the scene. The stage is minimally clad, with just a few hung white sheets and a woven picnic box to play with. This stark simplicity really adds to the story, letting the impressive performances take centre stage.
Zoë Alexander offers elegance and real stage presence as the leading lady. Her frustration and despair at the actions of the male romantic lead, played by James Izzet, deliver heartbreak and horror direct to the audience. Izzet proves to be suitably spooky in this role, with spectacular, deliberately vacant expressions that will bring a chill down your spine. The pair have a complex chemistry that makes the audience really invested in their story.
Cody Thacker and Sara Engeli make a dynamic duo in their role as supporting actors in every scene. Their characterisation of two yobs who appear when they are least wanted is rich, playful and funny. Engeli brings humour with tiny, well-thought-out details, and Thacker does a smashing impersonation of a radio presenter which is both defined and refined.
The whole production is greatly enhanced by the addition of live music, played by the talented Cleo Quesne. She pays real attention to the performers, selecting her moments to heighten tension with perfection.
The actors are guided by Director Rob McCloskey, who devises with his performers collaboratively. They are all involved at every stage in the process. The inventiveness, professionalism and creativity of expression displayed by such a young team is to be applauded.
Tip Of Your Tongue misses a valuable opportunity to turn a cultural trope on its head here. But what the devisers do with this fairly familiar tale is pretty much perfect.
Reviewed on 25 May 2025.
